New Delhi, Oct. 14 -- Sazerac Co, the American spirits giant that owns Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, is sharpening its focus on India as it looks to capture a share of one of the world's fastest-growing alcohol markets. Backed by its 60% stake in Goa-based John Distilleries, the privately-held company plans to deepen distribution, invest heavily in consumer education, and even expand its portfolio beyond bourbon to grow in India.

The renewed India strategy comes as Sazerac, the oldest continuously operating distillery in the US (since 1775), navigates trade frictions in Canada and Europe, bourbon's two largest foreign markets, owing to the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Executives said the shift isn't a reaction to t...